7 Most Profitable Food Stocks To Invest In

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1. Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. (NYSE:CMG)

TTM Net Income: $1.48 Billion

5-Year Net Income CAGR: 36.81%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 69

Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. (NYSE:CMG) is a restaurant company that operates a multinational chain of fast-casual restaurants specializing in burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads. As of September 30, 2024, there are more than 3,600 Chipotle restaurants in the US, the UK, Canada, France, Germany, and Kuwait.

CMG has demonstrated strong financial performance and strategic growth, making it an attractive food stock to consider. In the third quarter of 2024, Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. (NYSE:CMG) reported a 13% increase in total revenue, reaching $2.8 billion, alongside a 6% rise in comparable restaurant sales. This growth is indicative of the company’s effective strategies in enhancing customer experience and expanding its market presence.

In Q3 2024, the company opened 86 new company-operated restaurants, of which 73 included a Chipotlane, and one internationally licensed restaurant. Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. (NYSE:CMG) continues to prioritize expansion and it is on track to open between 285 and 315 restaurants in 2024. In 2025, the company expects to open between 315 and 345 new restaurants. Notably, over 80% of these new locations will feature Chipotlanes, the drive-thru lanes designed for digital orders. This format has proven successful in increasing sales and improving operational efficiency.

With strategic investments in technology and innovation, Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. (NYSE:CMG) is well-positioned for continued growth and success. Chipotle’s robust financial results, strategic expansion plans, and commitment to quality make it a compelling investment opportunity in the food sector.

Overall, CMG ranks first among the 7 most profitable food stocks to invest in. While we acknowledge the potential of food companies, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter time frame. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than CMG but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.

READ NEXT: 8 Best Wide Moat Stocks to Buy Now and 30 Most Important AI Stocks According to BlackRock.

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